Catholicism: The Repudiation of Progression

by Jamilla Alincastre, Camille Cupalao, Emren Manalastas, Mackenzie Riguer, and Aice Rodriguez

With legacies of traditional values upheld through time and schools marked by excellence, Catholicism is integral to the growth of modern Philippine society. However, as conservative moral standards adapt to modern propositions and equally erudite secular institutions bring forth significant feats across various fields, the prevailing influence of Catholicism is challenged. In the uprising of contemporary conventions and scientific development, the advancement of the Philippine society necessitates recognizing and inhibiting the authoritative sway of Catholic beliefs and figures.

Catholicism was introduced to the Philippines in 1521 through Spanish colonization. Members of the Church, such as friars and priests, held significant power within the government (Harvard Divinity School, 2015). To date, the Philippines is considered one of the countries with the largest number of Catholics, representing 86% of the population (Miller, 2021). Catholicism has been a significant part of nearly every aspect of a Filipino's life, as it has helped shape the country's identity and influence. However, the religion’s conservative customs can be why the country is delayed and lacking progress, as religious institutions often prioritize tradition over necessary change. The influence of the Catholic Church in the formation of laws and policies prevented the country from addressing some of the alarming social issues. When human rights and modern values are sacrificed in the church, the nation can be limited to addressing issues such as reproductive health, gender equality, and the protection of minorities. By opposing the approaches that can further extend the country's educational reform, protect the sanctity of life, and address the justification of corruption, the Church continues to practice unreformed traditions, which leaves the country to fall behind other nations.

Catholicism plays the biggest role in the development of education in the Philippines. Two of the leading universities, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and Ateneo de Manila, were founded by Catholic religious orders. The two universities are deeply rooted in Catholic customs balancing religion with academics, evident in their school visions. The University of Santo Tomas’ vision mentions “committed to serve the Church,” while Ateneo de Manila’s own vision speaks of being “rooted in its Filipino, Catholic, and Jesuit values.” Both have contributed significantly to the country’s intellectual and professional development. UST produced notable people in different fields. Widely known among them are the four former Presidents of the country, such as Manuel L. Quezon and José P. Laurel. Artists who helped enrich the Filipino culture also graduated from the university are Leandro V. Locsin, a National Artist for Architecture, and Francisco Sionil José, a National Artist for Literature. The university’s Bachelor of Science (BS) Architecture graduates made the University of Santo Tomas the lone top-performing school in the January 2025 Licensure Examinations for Architects administered by the Professional Regulation Commission. With 74 passers and an 88.10% passing rate, UST emerged as the top school among 98 higher education institutions with examinees. Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University has been doing programs that serve underprivileged communities. The program Tulong-Dunong (TD) is an example of this, providing tutoring to grade 5 and 6 pupils. Based on the 2024 World University Rankings by Times Higher Education (THE) provided that Ateneo de Manila University is still the top Philippine school in the latest global rankings with a bracket of 1001-1200 and University of Santo Tomas in the 1501+ bracket. Additionally, recent research suggests that the average graduation rate for high schoolers enrolled in Catholic schools is approaching 99%, which is far significant from the average public school graduation rate of 86%. However, while Catholicism impacted education in the Philippines, it does not play the biggest role in the development of education nor does being a student in the aforementioned universities guarantee success. Students in secular schools excel similarly to learners who study in non-secular universities and contribute to the body of knowledge. The University of the Philippines ranks first in the Philippines in the QS Asia University Rankings, showcasing the competency of the school (Quilinguing, 2024). The University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) obtained a 100% passing rate in the October and November 2024 Mining Engineers Licensure Examination, as well as a similar percentage in the licensure examination for architects. Additionally, UPD was also triumphant in the November 2024 Chemical Engineers Licensure Examination. All 56 examinees, including one that accumulated the highest credible score, have displayed excellence and proficiency with a 100% passing rate (Regidor, 2004). Another secular school, Far Eastern University Institute of Law (FEU-IL), has garnered 57 new lawyers out of 67 examinees of the Bar Examinations 2024. Last 2023, Far Eastern University Institute of Law (FEU-IL) yielded third place in the top-performing schools with 51-100 candidates as 43 out of 73 first-time takers passed (Durano, 2024). Knowing that secular schools are capable of performing on a similar level as non-secular schools shows that religious ties do not matter and therefore debunks catholicism being the "biggest role" in the further development of education in the Philippines.

The Catholic Church holds a strong stance on the sanctity of life, arguing that all human life is sacred and must be protected. The belief is rooted in the Church’s doctrine that intentionally preventing life through contraception is morally wrong, as it disrupts the natural reproductive process, which the Church believes is willed by God. The pro-life stance is not solely focused on preventing abortion but they view contraception as a violation of natural law; the Church states that human reproduction should not be artificially changed, as it is supposed to follow the natural processes of life. In addition, the church argues that it may have negative impacts such as the possibility of marital infidelity, and a decline in moral standards. The introduction of the contraceptive pill influenced the sexual norms, allowing women to engage in sex without thinking about the risk of pregnancy outside of marriage. Economists George Akerlof and Janet Yellen (1996) argue that the pill contributed to the "feminization of poverty" as women have the choice between contraception, childbirth, or abortion, causing many men to no longer feel the responsibility for children outside marriage. While the Catholic Church firmly holds a stance on the sanctity of life and moral values, it is important to acknowledge that reproductive health policies do not seek to ignore religious beliefs but to provide individuals with proper education regarding reproductive health. The RH Bill does not enforce contraception on anyone, nor does it promote actions that are against religious doctrine. Instead, it ensures that the people would get access to safe and proper reproductive health services. The bill respects religious beliefs while addressing public health concerns, reducing maternal mortality, and teaching individuals to make responsible decisions for their reproductive health and well-being, as well as good family planning. The bill aimed to provide Filipinos with free information and healthcare services. In addition, there is no compulsion; no restrictions on the number of

children a family can have, and no demographic targets. Sex education is found to reduce risky sexual behavior rather than promote it (Guttmacher Institute, 2022). RH bill aims to protect both women's and children’s lives by providing access to reproductive health services, such as contraception, maternal care, and sex education. Access to contraception led to higher rates of college graduates, increased workforce, and lower poverty rates among women (Kearney & Levine, 2015). Furthermore, the bill’s goal is to reduce maternal mortality, prevent unplanned pregnancies, and ensure the well-being of both mothers and children. Use of contraception can help partners plan their families effectively, reducing financial and emotional stress that can contribute to infidelity in the relationship. Opposition to the bill hinders the ability for us to progress as a country as this constricts women’s existence, actively risking their lives, and is a severe violation of human rights.

Advocacy for ethical governance, peace, and human rights has always been promoted by the Church throughout history (Camus, 2024). Additionally, leaders are constantly encouraged and called for by the Church to act with honesty and accountability (Esmaquel, 2024). The significant role that religious institutions and influence can play in fostering an equitable society and positive political change is highlighted by the Church’s active participation in social justice movements. A historical instance of this is the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986, which led to the ousting of former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr. from power. The Catholic Church played a crucial role in the series of rallies as they provided moral leadership and promoted non-violent resistance (Telen, 2023). However, religious influence can also be misused as a strategy by people in the political field, especially during the election period. Hence, religious rhetoric and affiliations are often used by leaders to justify their corrupt methods and invoke power to the people. This is a strategy where their decisions, policies, and actions are presented as being endorsed by God. An example is Apollo Quiboloy, who proclaimed himself as the “appointed Son of God” and the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. His actions have been covered up, and influence is exerted over people, especially his

followers, by his divine claims. Quiboloy’s loyal and strong connection with former President Rodrigo Duterte significantly increased his influence. Although he is wanted by the FBI on sexual abuse and human trafficking charges, a run for the Senate for 2025 was still managed by him, and he has followers who remain loyal to him. A study was conducted in the Archdiocese of San Fernando, Pampanga, where a candidate’s strong religious beliefs and fear of God were considered by Catholic voters to be their top-most preferred characteristics, followed by the incorruptibility of the politician (Sicat & Lugue, 2018). Given that the majority of the population of the Philippines is Catholic, it is evident that significant sway over elections is held by Catholicism. A compilation of issued statements and letters guiding the people on important political and social issues has been compiled by the CBCP. Although candidates are not explicitly endorsed by the assembly, guidance and advice are provided to voters to choose, support, and vote for candidates whose values align with Catholic principles (Picardal, 2023). Alongside that, the dominance of religion in the country leads to the perception by people that certain political leaders are acting according to God’s will. The influence of Catholicism on voting behavior and politics can sometimes be used to protect and cover corrupt politicians from public concerns.

In conclusion, old long-established religious customs are preferred by most citizens in the country rather than the advancements and changes brought by modernization, due to the huge influence of Catholicism. This preference leads to resistance to addressing issues that are “violating” the Church, such as sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and minority protection. For instance, the lack of a divorce law in the Philippines, other than Vatican City, is influenced by conservative religious groups. As a result, the progress of the nation is limited. Catholicism is not a pillar in terms of education and educational and scientific topics that do not align with their beliefs are resisted by religious institutions. Religious rhetoric and connections are used by politicians to cover corrupt methods and offenses. To address this problem, active work should be done by the government and the citizens together, without religious blindness and limitations. Technological and scientific advancements have been seen in countries that have successfully separated religion and politics, such as Turkey and France (Akan, n.d). For example, significant improvements in healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development have been brought about by the secularization of Turkey (Rai, 2024). Meanwhile, a neutral environment for French citizens and a more developed education system with a strong emphasis on scientific research and innovation have resulted from France’s secular policies (“French Secular Education: Principles & Impacts,” n.d). To bridge the gap between traditional and modern practices, progressive policies should be supported by Filipinos and educational and scientific education should be encouraged, where developments are valued. The advocacy for separating religion and politics will ensure that governmental and political decisions are made based on facts, evidence, true reasoning, and inclusivity.

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